THE VIRGINIAN-PILOT
Copyright (c) 1995, Landmark Communications, Inc.
DATE: Sunday, July 2, 1995 TAG: 9506280007
SECTION: COMMENTARY PAGE: J4 EDITION: FINAL
TYPE: Letter
LENGTH: Short : 38 lines
It is commendable that Brenda McCormick is a voice for people with special needs in our area (``Advocate calls tuition costs at beach schools ``mean-spirited,'' MetroNews, June 23). It is unfortunate that some students may not be able to participate in summer-school classes due to tuition costs. What is most unfortunate is that many of these classes are really not necessary when we consider why students usually need to take summer classes.
I have taught in Virginia Beach City Schools for 11 years. In that time, I have issued failing grades to students. I can safely say I never issued that grade to a student without just cause - that cause being their choice to not complete my minimum class requirements. These requirements include turning in assignments and receiving a passing grade on tests. I still do not believe these are unacceptable minimum requirements to pass any class (lowest passing grade is only 70 percent).
It appears that Ms. McCormick and others need to realize that many (if not most) of the middle- and high-school students who need to take summer-school classes are in those classes because of their lack of effort during the regular school year.
My son recently completed eighth grade after failing it once due to his lack of effort. He has also been required to take summer-school classes. I have never blamed ``the system'' for my son taking classes a second time.
It still sounds simple: A little extra work during the year from students would allow parents to never worry about summer-school tuition costs.
RON SHANEYFELT
Virginia Beach, June 24, 1995
rshaneyf(AT)pen.k12.va.us by CNB